Flying High: Is Premium Economy Worth It? 
2E5940B1Ff604B9B46E1F3Dde68Fc4E5?S=96&D=Mm&R=G

Written by Amri

January 14, 2025

Flying High: Is Premium Economy Worth It

Travelling can be an exciting adventure, but let’s face it—long-haul flights in cramped economy seats often make the experience less enjoyable.

While travelling domestically, the lack of extra legroom, smaller seats, and the armrest war can be considered minor inconveniences. On international flights, however, you quickly realise that you would do just about anything for a little more personal space.

Premium class offers a more comfortable and affordable alternative; the real question is, is premium economy worth it? This article will dive into the key aspects of the premium economy cabin, compare different airlines, and help you decide if the upgrade is justified.  

What is Premium Economy? 

Tiered between economy and business class, premium economy provides travellers with more comfort, space, and amenities. Although it lacks business-class luxuries, it is a major improvement over regular economy. 

Features of Premium Economy

Multiple features could make your flight enjoyable and more comfortable, truly emphasising the difference between the premium and regular economy experience. These features often include:

  • Increased legroom and seat width
  • Elevated dining experience
  • Priority check-in and boarding
  • A wider variety of in-flight entertainment

The specifications of these features depend entirely on the selected aircraft and the airline with which you book your seats.

What is the Difference Between Premium and Economy Class?

Passengers will experience similar flying experiences in both premium and economy class; even so, the few differences significantly alter the quality of the air journey, especially on long-haul flights. Here are some of the key differentiators:

1. Comfortable Seating

The typical seat width in economy class is about 17 inches, with roughly 30 inches of legroom. In premium economy, these measures can rise to about 18–19 inches in width and 37–38 inches in legroom, giving passengers travelling in the cabin more space to stretch out and get some shut-eye. Airlines like British Airways and Virgin Atlantic also provide premium seats with adjustable headrests, footrests, and lumbar support, adding to the allure of that premium ticket.

Given the numerous airlines and variety of aircraft, finding and comparing premium economy seats, their width, and pitch specifications could help passengers make informed decisions before booking that next flight.

2. Meal and Beverage Choices Onboard

The improved meal service is one of the most notable perks of flying premium economy, offering a wider variety of food and drinks (alcoholic beverages included) to passengers. Singapore Airlines’ premium economy dining experience, which offers chef-curated menus with more substantial and flavourful alternatives served on custom-made porcelain serviceware, has garnered praise for elevating their in-flight quality.

Flying High: Is Premium Economy Worth It?

3. In-Flight Entertainment

More films, TV series, and games are available on larger personal screens in premium cabins. Furthermore, passengers frequently receive noise-cancelling headphones, which enhance the fun and immersive entertainment experience. Emirates offers one of the best in-flight entertainment systems in the industry, with over 6,500 channels to choose from in their premium cabins.

Unlike standard economy seats, most airlines provide premium economy passengers special Wi-Fi benefits. These perks include:

  • Faster speeds due to priority bandwidth
  • Discounted, limited, or free Wi-Fi
  • More reliable connection
  • Dedicated hotspots or network segments.

This aids in providing an improved Wi-Fi experience for premium economy passengers.

4. Priority Service

Premium economy passengers receive priority check-in and boarding; some airports even ensure quicker security screening and dedicated counters to save the passengers’ time.

As another added privilege, passengers in the premium economy class usually receive more personal attention than those in economy class. There can be fewer flight attendants, which generally results in quicker reaction times and better attention to passenger needs.

Is Premium Economy Worth the Splurge?

Depending on the airline, route, and time of booking, the price difference between economy and premium economy can vary significantly, with research showing that the upgrade can sometimes cost as much as 50-150% more. That being said, it’s important to note that premium is still more budget-friendly than first and business class while simultaneously being more comfortable than regular economy.

The extra comfort of premium economy can influence lengthy journeys—passengers flying for eight to twelve hours or longer will particularly benefit from the additional space, better food, and better service. For shorter trips, the cost of premium economy may not be worth it, as the added comfort might not be as noticeable.

Travel tip: Airlines offer different premium amenities; it’s advised to do independent research on which premium economy cabins are worth the splurge on leading airlines.

Who Should Consider Premium Economy?

Premium economy is suited for specific types of travellers who would benefit from the additional comfort and amenities commonly provided. These flyers include:

•Business Travellers: Premium economy provides an excellent blend of comfort and expense. Increased space and prioritised services help to minimise stress on long trips.

•Long-Haul Passengers: If you’re flying for 8 hours or more, premium economy can significantly improve your comfort, sleep quality, and overall experience.

•Price-conscious quality seekers: Premium economy offers an economical alternative for experiencing some of the benefits of business class without the associated expenses.

Premium Economy: A Wise Choice?

Premium economy provides an exceptional blend of comfort, service, and affordability, making it a popular choice among many travellers. From improved seating to superior in-flight services, it’s a substantial step up from economy class without the added cost of business class.

For long-haul flights, premium economy can make all the difference. However, whether it’s worthwhile is largely determined by your travel needs, priorities, and budget. Before deciding, always check pricing, weigh your options, and contemplate your travel objectives.

If you’re ready to upgrade your next flight, look into your options today and enjoy the comfort of premium economy on your next journey.

Flying High: Is Premium Economy Worth It?
Flying High: Is Premium Economy Worth It?

Why choose us?

→ Dedicated Travel Expert

→ 24/7 Assistance

→Negotiated Rates

→Expert Advice

posts

Recommended for you